THE LORAX by Dr. Seuss

Now is a great time to revisit this classic Dr. Seuss story about a Lorax that "speaks for the trees" - warning against mindless "progress" and greedy consumerism. First published in 1971, the message of this picture book is still relevant, yet it is still typical Seuss fare - fun to read aloud and not preachy. Universal Pictures plans to release an animated movie based on this story in early March so stop by your library to check it out; it's on the shelf at E SEU.

BIG WOLF AND LITTLE WOLF by Nadine Brun-Cosme

This simple but endearing story of friendship begins when Big Wolf, who has lived alone at the top of the hill for as long as he can remember, spots a little speck in the distance coming ever closer. The little speck turns out to be Little Wolf, who each day encroaches a little more into Big Wolf’s world. At first, Big Wolf doesn’t know what to make of this intruder but gradually he finds himself sharing more and more of his life with Little Wolf. Still, it isn’t until Little Wolf disappears that Big Wolf realizes truly just how much he liked having Little Wolf around. The illustrator uses simple but bold paint strokes to effectively evoke the mood of the story. You will be smiling as you read this story aloud, and rest assured, all ends well. This story is a favorite in France and only recently has been translated into English; find it at E BRU.

THE UPSTAIRS CAT by Karla Kuskin

The Upstairs Cat is actually about two cats - one who lives upstairs and who won't come downstairs and one who lives downstairs and refuses to come upstairs. It's a standoff with both cats glaring and hissing at each other until one day when they meet on the stairs! Look out as the fur flies! Told in rhyming text, the story illustrates the stupidity of their "year after year" catfights and concludes that "nothing is dumber than war," especially when you don't even know what you're fighting about. Illustrator Howard Fine captures the personalities of the two cats and their respective territories in vibrant pastels. Find this one at E KUS.